Talking Pools Podcast

Rudy Stankowitz

If you’ve ever stared at a test kit like it personally insulted your family… welcome home. Talking Pools Podcast is the pool industry’s “pull up a chair” show—part shop talk, part field manual, part therapy session—built for people who actually live on pool decks: commercial operators, service techs, builders, facility managers, and anyone responsible for water that can’t afford to go sideways. The network was created to level up the pool industry with real-world conversations on water chemistry, filtration, troubleshooting, construction, safety, and the business side of keeping pools open and budgets intact.  Here’s the hook: it’s not theory-first. It’s experience-first—a roster of seasoned pros (with 250+ years of combined “been there, fixed that” wisdom) turning complicated problems into practical moves you can use the same day.  And it’s not one voice, one vibe, one corner of the industry: it’s a network of shows designed to reflect how diverse this work really is—different regions, different specialties, different personalities.  Also worth saying out loud: women aren’t “special guests” here—they’re on the mic as hosts, from the beginning, with an intentionally balanced roster.  That matters, because the best ideas in this industry don’t come from one lane—they come from the whole road. If you want a podcast that can make you laugh and make you better at what you do—without pretending the job is easier than it is—Talking Pools is the one you queue up before the first stop, and keep on when the day starts getting weird. 

  1. Pool Industry Time-Saving Hacks - Mondays, Australia, News Zealand

    13 HR AGO

    Pool Industry Time-Saving Hacks - Mondays, Australia, News Zealand

    Send us Fan Mail On this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Lee Salisbury, Shane from Auckland, and Nick from Brisbane dive headfirst into one of the biggest challenges facing pool professionals everywhere: time management.  From subscription fatigue to overloaded schedules, the crew discusses how pool service companies can streamline operations, eliminate wasted effort, and create smarter workflows without adding more stress—or more monthly software fees.  Nick shares how he has transformed Buffer Zone into a centralized operational hub for his business, using it for everything from technician scheduling and supplier management to equipment manuals, staff notes, training resources, and client communication. The conversation explores how keeping everything inside one ecosystem reduces missed jobs, forgotten tasks, duplicated subscriptions, and operational chaos.  The episode also explores creative “workarounds” within software systems—showing listeners how to use scheduling tools for personal appointments, admin blocks, vehicle servicing reminders, supplier pickups, and inventory management. Shane discusses his previous use of the Timely calendar system and how similar functionality can be recreated directly inside Buffer Zone to simplify operations and reduce reliance on external apps.  Lee takes the conversation further into productivity systems, sharing how tools like Google Workspace, Google Calendar, Google Tasks, Google Forms, Google Drive, and automation integrations can dramatically improve efficiency for pool service companies. The discussion highlights real-world examples of live technician reporting, automated spreadsheets, winter repair prospecting, quote generation, inventory forecasting, and field-to-office communication systems that save hours every week.  The team also discusses password management, shared staff access, cloud-based documentation, technician accountability, and how centralizing information can protect businesses when employees leave or systems fail.  Most importantly, this episode focuses on the philosophy of continuous improvement—making small operational changes that create massive long-term gains. Whether you’re a solo operator or managing multiple technicians, the crew emphasizes that investing time into better systems today can save enormous amounts of time, stress, and money tomorrow.  Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    40 min
  2. The Sodium Bromide Ban - Rudy talks with Scott Hamilton, CEO, United Chemical

    3 DAYS AGO

    The Sodium Bromide Ban - Rudy talks with Scott Hamilton, CEO, United Chemical

    Send us Fan Mail This episode features Scott Hamilton, CEO of United Chemical, discussing the EPA's recent restrictions on sodium bromide, its implications for pool professionals, and the science behind bromate formation and safety. Gain insights into regulatory processes, chemical safety, and effective pool management strategies. keywords sodium bromide, EPA regulations, bromate, pool chemistry, pool safety, algae control, chemical risk assessment, United Chemical, Yellow Treat, bromine pools key topics EPA's restrictions on sodium bromideBromate formation and health risksScience and risk assessment of pool chemicalsguest name Scott Hamilton Sound Bites "Don't let your mentor go, that's mentoreward.com.""Bromamines are effective and don't have a nasty smell.""Pool pros should voice their concerns to regulators."Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the EPA's Controversy on Sodium Bromide 03:52 The History and Impact of Bromate Regulations 06:53 Understanding Bromate Formation in Pools 09:30 The Chemistry of Bromine and Chlorine in Pools 12:18 The Misconceptions of Bromine Pools 15:16 Toxicology of Bromate and Cancer Risks 18:12 Bromate in Food Products and Regulatory Delays 22:25 Understanding EPA's Role and Challenges 25:10 The Impact of Lobbying on Chemical Regulations 29:45 Efficacy of Sodium Bromide in Algae Control 30:50 Trends in Mustard Algae Growth 34:22 Research Findings on Bromate Formation 42:48 Engaging with Regulatory Bodies 45:40 Legacy and Safety of Sodium Bromide Resources United ChemicalYellow TreatEPA Regulations on Bromide Products (2005)Bromate Risk Assessment Study AquaStar Pool ProductsThe Global Leader in Safety, Dependability, & Innovation in Pool Technology.BLUERAY XLThe real mineral purifier! Reduce your pool maintenance costs & efforts by 50%CPO Certification ClassesAttend your CPO class with Rudy Stankowitz!Jack's MagicIf you know Jack's you'd have no stains!Service Industry NewsDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    52 min
  3. Mastering HR in Small Pool Businesses - Mondays Down Under

    11 MAY

    Mastering HR in Small Pool Businesses - Mondays Down Under

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Heidi Weeks from Peppermint HR shares expert insights on HR best practices for small businesses, especially in the pool industry. Topics include compliance, structuring, connection, and practical tips for building a strong HR foundation. keywords HR, small business, pool industry, compliance, employee engagement, HR policies, team management, HR tips key topics HR compliance and award classificationsBuilding organizational structure and clarityCreating connection and engagement with stafftakeaways Start with compliance: pay rates, contracts, policies.Embed simple HR systems early to support growth.Regular communication and feedback are crucial.Know your staff personally to motivate and retain.guest name Heidi Weeks Sound Bites "Know your award and pay rates""Establish clear HR processes""Create a family culture"Chapters 00:00 Introduction to HR in the Pool Industry 02:29 Unique Challenges in the Pool Industry 04:53 The Importance of HR from Day One 07:41 Three Pillars of HR: Confidence, Clarity, and Connection 10:00 Building Confidence through Compliance 12:47 Establishing Clarity in HR Processes 15:31 Fostering Connection for High Performance 17:56 Navigating the Employer-Friend Dynamic 20:31 Common HR Mistakes and Easy Fixes 23:25 Engaging Employees for Better Retention 26:02 Conclusion and Resources Resources Peppermint HR WebsiteHR Foundations GuideHR Health Check Quiz Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    43 min
  4. Your Pool Truck Might Be Illegal - Rudy

    8 MAY

    Your Pool Truck Might Be Illegal - Rudy

    Send us Fan Mail On this episode of Floc It Friday, Rudy Stankowitz dives headfirst into one of the most overlooked realities in the swimming pool industry: your pool truck may legally qualify as a hazardous materials transport vehicle. Rudy breaks down how everyday pool chemicals like liquid chlorine, muriatic acid, trichlor, cal hypo, cyanuric acid, and even improperly labeled buckets can place pool professionals directly under federal DOT hazmat regulations. From 49 CFR Materials of Trade exceptions to hazmat training requirements, shipping papers, securement rules, placarding, container limits, and chemical compatibility, this episode becomes an eye-opening deep dive into how many pool companies may unknowingly be operating outside federal compliance. Rudy explains why “everybody does it this way” is not a legal defense and why a single roadside inspection could turn a routine service route into a federal violation.  The episode also revisits Rudy’s alum cyanuric acid removal method and the science behind aluminum complexation with cyanuric acid. Rudy addresses criticism surrounding the process, explaining why the observed CYA reduction cannot simply be attributed to water loss during vacuum-to-waste. He discusses the original research, lab verification by OnBalance, the role of metal complexation, and the parallels between aluminum cyanurate and copper cyanurate chemistry. Rudy also compares aluminum sulfate and lanthanum chloride as phosphate removers, breaking down the chemistry, dosing calculations, pH considerations, and operational trade-offs between the two treatment methods in a way only Rudy can deliver.  Later in the episode, Rudy shifts into industry news and commentary, discussing Hayward’s gradual discontinuation of legacy ProLogic accessories and what it means for service companies maintaining aging automation systems. He explains why proactive OmniPL upgrades may become a business necessity rather than an option. The show closes with a rapid-fire industry update touching on PoolCorp’s executive leadership transition, Pentair and PoolBrain’s push toward data-driven service automation, the growing divide between tech-driven companies and “memory-based” operations, and the importance of National Water Safety Month. Throughout the episode, Rudy blends technical education, operational reality, and industry forecasting into a no-nonsense conversation about where the pool industry is headed — and who may get left behind if they fail to evolve.  Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    57 min
  5. Swimming Pools at Student Housing and the Headaches that Ensue - Steve

    7 MAY

    Swimming Pools at Student Housing and the Headaches that Ensue - Steve

    Send us Fan Mail hosts Steve Sherwood and Pat Rignyan from the California Pool Association take a deep dive into one of the busiest and most overlooked risk seasons in the pool industry: commercial and student housing pools. As pool professionals across the country juggle openings, CPO classes, hotels, HOAs, and large commercial accounts, Steve raises an important question many service companies never stop to ask until it’s too late — how much additional liability comes with servicing high-traffic student housing and HOA pools?  Pat explains that while most insurance policies don’t specifically exclude commercial pools, student housing environments bring a completely different level of exposure due to heavy bather loads, parties, glass breakage, and general “shenanigans.” The conversation explores the importance of umbrella policies, understanding indemnification clauses in HOA contracts, and why pool pros should carefully review agreements before signing. The guys discuss how some HOA contracts place all responsibility on the service company regardless of fault, and why mutual indemnification language matters more than most pool operators realize.  Steve also shares real-world frustrations from dealing with hotels and constantly changing management teams, highlighting how turnover, delayed approvals, and lack of communication can create operational nightmares for service companies. The episode ultimately becomes a larger conversation about trusting your gut, setting boundaries with difficult clients, pricing appropriately for high-risk work, and learning when to walk away from accounts that create more headaches than profit. For pool professionals servicing HOAs, hotels, apartment complexes, or student housing, this episode offers valuable insight into protecting both your business and your sanity.  Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    21 min
  6. Coast Guard Aviation: Rescue Swim Myths, Missions, and Career Paths _ Natalie

    6 MAY

    Coast Guard Aviation: Rescue Swim Myths, Missions, and Career Paths _ Natalie

    Send us Fan Mail Natalie Hood (the Grit Game) explores the diverse roles and responsibilities of Coast Guard aviation professionals with Nicholas L. Gavin. This includes, but is not limited to myths about AMTs, AETs, and ASTs, and gain insights into their training, missions, and career paths.  keywords Coast Guard, aviation, AMT, AET, AST, rescue missions, military careers, aviation maintenance, rescue swimmer, career in Coast Guard  key  topics Roles of AMT, AET, and AST in Coast Guard Training and skills required for Coast Guard aviation roles Myths and realities of rescue missions and responsibilities Career paths and opportunities in Coast Guard aviation The importance of physical and technical skills in rescue operations  guest  name Nicholas L. Gavin  sound bites "Most of my career has been anything but routine." "Coordination with pilots is vital during rescues." "My favorite job was doing search and rescue." Chapters 00:00 Behind the Scenes of Coast Guard Aviation 04:38 Understanding the Roles of AMTs and ASTs 22:11 The Training and Skills of Aviation Survival Technicians 32:33 Realistic Expectations for Joining the Coast Guard  resources Go Coast Guard - https://gocoastguard.com US Coast Guard - https://www.uscg.mil Rescue Swimmer School - https://www.uscg.mil/Our-Organization/Assistant-Commandant-for-Prevention-Policy-CG-5P/Rescue-Swimmer/  guest links Email - Nicholas.L.Gavin@USCG.mil The Grit GameThe Grit Game, is not just playing the game, we’re changing it. 500+ years industry experience, Revdup Apparel a custom apparel company built for the pool industry. Founded by pool professionalsDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    49 min

About

If you’ve ever stared at a test kit like it personally insulted your family… welcome home. Talking Pools Podcast is the pool industry’s “pull up a chair” show—part shop talk, part field manual, part therapy session—built for people who actually live on pool decks: commercial operators, service techs, builders, facility managers, and anyone responsible for water that can’t afford to go sideways. The network was created to level up the pool industry with real-world conversations on water chemistry, filtration, troubleshooting, construction, safety, and the business side of keeping pools open and budgets intact.  Here’s the hook: it’s not theory-first. It’s experience-first—a roster of seasoned pros (with 250+ years of combined “been there, fixed that” wisdom) turning complicated problems into practical moves you can use the same day.  And it’s not one voice, one vibe, one corner of the industry: it’s a network of shows designed to reflect how diverse this work really is—different regions, different specialties, different personalities.  Also worth saying out loud: women aren’t “special guests” here—they’re on the mic as hosts, from the beginning, with an intentionally balanced roster.  That matters, because the best ideas in this industry don’t come from one lane—they come from the whole road. If you want a podcast that can make you laugh and make you better at what you do—without pretending the job is easier than it is—Talking Pools is the one you queue up before the first stop, and keep on when the day starts getting weird. 

You Might Also Like